Usually, no. Unopened canned meat labeled shelf-stable can be stored in a cool, dry pantry; it does not need refrigeration. The exception is a product labeled “Keep Refrigerated”, which must stay chilled before opening. Follow the storage directions on the specific package.
How to tell whether canned meat needs refrigeration
Check the label rather than relying on the fact that the product comes in a can. Most commercially canned meat is shelf-stable, but some canned hams and seafood products are perishable. USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) guidance explains that some canned products “are not safe at room temperature.” If the label says “Keep Refrigerated,” keep the can refrigerated while it is unopened.
| Product category | Before opening | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Shelf-stable canned meat | Store in a cool, dry cupboard or pantry; refrigeration is not required. | No “Keep Refrigerated” instruction. |
| Perishable canned meat, including some canned hams | Keep refrigerated. | Follow the package’s “Keep Refrigerated” instruction. |
“Shelf stable” means the product can be stored safely at room temperature while unopened when handled and stored as directed. It does not mean every product in a metal can is shelf-stable. See USDA FSIS’s explanation of shelf-stable food.
Where to store unopened shelf-stable canned meat
Use a cool, dry cupboard or pantry. USDA FSIS says temperatures below 85°F are best for canned foods; avoid hot spots such as beside or above a stove, as well as damp locations. Moisture can contribute to corrosion or rust. FSIS recommends storing unopened commercially canned foods in a cool, dry place, “such as in a cupboard.” See USDA FSIS shelf-stable food safety guidance.
#1 Best Overall
- Four (4) 4.5 oz cans of Swanson White Premium Chunk Canned Chicken Breast in Water
- Ready-to-eat, fully cooked chicken chunks
- Premium white chicken meat with no antibiotics or added MSG
- 98% fat free, gluten free and an excellent source of protein, with 12 grams in each 4.5-ounce can
- Eat it on crackers, add it to salads, or use it in any recipe that calls for diced chicken breast, such as buffalo chicken dip or chicken salad
Refrigerating an unopened shelf-stable can is not necessary for safety. A cool, dry cupboard is the normal storage choice; avoid keeping cans in a moist environment.
How long unopened canned meat keeps its quality
For low-acid canned foods such as meat and poultry, USDA FSIS gives two to five years for best quality when the unopened can is in good condition and stored in a cool, clean, dry place. This is category-level quality guidance, not a guarantee that every can will remain at its best for that period. Check the product’s own label and date, and do not use this estimate to override a “Keep Refrigerated” instruction or concerns about a damaged can. FSIS notes that properly stored shelf-stable food can remain safe indefinitely, though quality may decline. See USDA FSIS’s storage guidance.
Rank #2
- Six 4.6 oz cans of Armour Star Original Vienna Canned Sausage
- Versatile, ready to eat canned sausages offer an easy meal
- Vienna sausage cans contain canned meat that is gluten free and made with chicken, beef and pork
- Eat right out of the can, add to recipes or serve as an appetizer
- Ready to eat meat in a can that doesn’t require any cooking
When to discard a can
Do not use a can that is bulging or leaking; discard cans that are rusty or deeply dented. Do not taste food from a can that looks compromised. FSIS also advises discarding canned foods or retort pouches showing swelling, rusting, or leakage. See USDA FSIS guidance on meat and poultry storage.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to do after opening
Refrigerate leftover canned meat promptly. USDA FSIS gives three to four days in the refrigerator for opened low-acid canned foods such as meat. It is safe to refrigerate unused food in the opened can, but transferring it to a clean glass or food-grade plastic container can help preserve flavor. See FSIS’s guidance on opened canned food and its advice about storing leftovers in the can.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Two (2) 12.5 oz cans of Swanson White Premium Chunk Canned Chicken Breast in Water
- Ready-to-eat, fully cooked chicken chunks
- Premium white chicken meat with no antibiotics or added MSG
- 98% fat free, gluten free and an excellent source of protein, with 15 grams in each 3-ounce serving
- Eat it on crackers, add it to salads, or use it in any recipe that calls for diced chicken breast, such as buffalo chicken dip or chicken salad
Rank #4
- Fully cooked, ready to eat meat chunks
- Gluten free and nutritious; perfect for a quick tasty meal
- 90 calories per serving
- 9 grams of protein per serving
- Gluten free and nutritious; perfect for a quick tasty meal
Rank #3
- DELICIOUS, CLASSIC TUNA: A true all-American classic, Chicken of the Sea tuna in water is perfectly seasoned with salt and packed in water for the freshest, best taste
- HIGH IN PROTEIN: The perfect high protein tuna for your active, healthy lifestyle; these non-GMO tuna cans feature heart-healthy omega-3s, vitamins, and minerals; with 23 grams of lean protein, it’s perfect for keto, paleo, and Mediterranean diets
- VERSATILE FLAVOR: Our wild caught, water-packed chunk light canned tuna in water is right at home in any recipe; add the canned fish to your favorite sandwich, wrap, rice bowl, pasta, salad, melt, dip, and beyond
- WILD CAUGHT: We’re doing our part to keep our seas healthy; our classic tuna salad cans contain only Marine Stewardship Council certified, 100% wild tuna; this 10-pack of tuna fish lets you stock up and save on delicious meals
- THE ONE FOR ME: Chicken of the Sea has been in business since 1914, providing wild caught tuna overflowing with flavor and packed with protein; our SeaChange sustainability plan has solutions for both people & the planet to support a better future for all
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